Child Custody

questions & answers

Question: Can a mother who just notified a man he has a child after 3 years file for child support then file for abandonment? Will the father have the opportunity to establish a relationship even if he lives in different state?

Answer: You have the legal right to respond to any petition your ex has filed and inform the court that you had no knowledge of the child's existence.  It would be in your best interest to consult a lawyer to discuss the issue but do not delay in responding to her petition.  I do not know where you live.  If you live in Arizona, there are several programs that offer inexpensive legal consultations. There are two programs in Arizona that you can use to get some inexpensive legal advice and guidance.  One is the Modest Means Program.  For a $75 fee, the Modest Means Program will arrange a one hour consult with an experienced attorney.  The telephone number is (866) 637-5341 or you can apply online at http://www.azlawhelp.org/accessToJustice.cfm.  The second program is the Maricopa County Bar Association's Lawyer Referral Service.  For a $40 fee, Maricopa County Bar Associations Lawyer Referral will set you up with a 30 minute consultation with an experienced lawyer.  The telephone number is (602) 257-4434.  If you live in another state, check with the State Bar or State Bar Foundation for similar programs.